Sizing a van around what you are moving
List the largest items with rough length, width and height, and give an estimate of total weight, because bulk and payload limit a van in different ways. Mention anything awkward, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or long timber. Describe loading at both ends, including stairs, lift access, distance from the kerb and whether anyone will help lift.
Picking a suitable van
Start with the load, then choose the van. A small van works well for boxes, tools and light collections; medium and long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment; and a Luton is the better choice for bulkier items on a house move. Subject to dates, driver details and availability, the range includes the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB. Make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are all confirmed at quote stage, so treat these vehicles as a guide to the kind of hire on offer rather than a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Writing Down the Timing Details
Begin your preparation by noting the timeline for the day, covering both ends of the job. Record when the van is due to start, when items need to reach their destination, and any fixed appointments such as a storage unit closing time or a collection window agreed with a seller. If packing is still in progress, estimate how long it might take and note whether that happens before the hire begins or during it. Write down who is responsible for each stage, from sorting boxes to final checks, and flag any part of the schedule that feels uncertain. These timing notes, together with your access arrangements and hire dates, give the team a clear picture when matching the job to a small van, Transit, Luton, dropside or crew van.
Coordinating the People Helping You
If friends, family or colleagues are lending a hand, it helps to sort out their involvement before the hire date arrives. List everyone who has agreed to help, confirm their availability for the whole period or just part of it, and note their contact numbers so you can reach them if plans shift. Agree in advance who is handling which task, whether that is holding keys, meeting the van at the destination, or managing paperwork at the far end. Where helpers are travelling in their own vehicles, record who is going where and when. Having these arrangements settled means you can brief the team confidently on what the day involves and adjust the schedule if anyone's availability changes before the hire begins.
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Last checks before booking
Before the hire is confirmed, go over the key points: whether the vehicle is available, the driver requirements, mileage, insurance, the delivery or collection arrangements and any extras you have asked for. Make sure payload, loading height, tail-lift needs, driver details, deposits and insurance excess are confirmed before you settle on a van size. A clear request gives the date, the length of hire, a rough route, the delivery or pickup address, the passengers or load you expect and any special requirements that might affect which vehicle is suitable.